Efficacy and tolerability of topical tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of male genital psoriasis.

BACKGROUND: Genital psoriasis is difficult to treat and has a significant psychological impact on affected patients. OBJECTIVE: To study the safety and efficacy of topical tacrolimus ointment in male patients with genital psoriasis. METHODS: This was an open-label study in 12 male patients with genital psoriasis. Patients received topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment twice daily for 8 weeks followed by a 4-week observational period. Efficacy was assessed by a modification of the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scale adapted for genital psoriasis (male genital PASI). Severity was also evaluated individually for the glans, shaft of the penis, and scrotum. RESULTS: Male genital PASI decreased from a mean score of 15.8 at baseline to 1.2 at week 8 (p < .001). Psoriasis severity also improved significantly for the glans, shaft of the penis, and scrotum evaluated individually. Tacrolimus 0.1% ointment was very well tolerated, with only mild pruritus or burning sensation of limited duration reported. CONCLUSIONS: Topical tacrolimus ointment appears very efficacious and well tolerated in male patients with genital psoriasis.